Conservation Projects through San Diego County Orchid Society

Conservation of all plants and wildlife is paramount in for our global society. The San Diego County Orchid Society (SDCOS) is doing its part in conservation of orchids found in the wild around the world. These orchid habitats are being lost at an alarming rate due to the loss of their environment and by illegal collection. According to Bruce Berg, the mission of the SDCOS includes the protection, study and education to help conserve these natural habitats. This map displays the areas where the SDCOS has sponsored orchid conservation projects.

One of their successful programs helped to rescue a habitat in Equator where several varieties of orchids grow in the wild. With the help of Equator’s federal government, a conservation easement was established to protect this region. It is now listed in the esteemed book, “The Lonely Planet” as a preserve where the habitat is protected and is supported by visitor and tourist donations to explore the natural fauna.

The SDCOS is currently funding a project to save the Himalayan “Snow Orchids” in India. The orchid society of nearly 600 members raises about $12,000 yearly since 1991. The group has supported habitats in over 18 different countries. Their effort can be supported by orchid donations to the society which are in turn re-sold to raise money. To find out how you can donate to this cause visit http://www.sdorchids.com/.

The American Orchid Society recognized the San Diego chapter with the prestigious Conservation Award in 2004. The AOS has about 30,000 members and support further education and knowledge of orchid habitats to a wider audience. See http://www.aos.org/ for more information.

In addition to the conservation projects, the SDCOS mission is to share information and techniques with other orchid enthusiasts. The group sponsors 4 shows annually, with the next show in October at the Scottish Rite Building.

The SDCOS meets the 1st Tuesday of the month at 6:30pm at the Casa del Prado in Balboa Park. Admission is free and everyone is welcome from beginners to serious collectors. More membership information can be found on the site http://www.sdorchids.com/.